Go Back

Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni

A bold and comforting dish featuring spicy Cajun steak tips paired with creamy rigatoni pasta in a cheesy sauce, ready in just 30 minutes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 640
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound steak tips
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 8 ounces rigatoni pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream fresh and cold gives a better finish
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese grate it yourself for the best melt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the steak tips dry and sprinkle them evenly with Cajun seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the steak tips. Cook until browned and cooked to your liking, about 3–5 minutes per side for medium.
  3. Remove the steak and set it aside.
  4. Lower the heat slightly and pour heavy cream into the same skillet. Scrape up the browned bits and bring the cream to a gentle simmer.
  5. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese a little at a time until the sauce thickens and turns glossy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add rigatoni to the skillet so each tube catches the cheesy sauce.
  7. Return steak tips to the pan and toss everything together, then garnish with chopped parsley.

Notes

Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother and tastes brighter. Save time by cooking the steak and making the sauce while the pasta boils. For a smokier note, add smoked paprika, or swap rigatoni for penne or fusilli.